Women are vastly underrepresented in the workforce. According to the National Science Foundation, only 28% of all science and engineering workers are women. In total, women make up 29% of physical scientists, 25% of computer and mathematical scientists, and 13% of all engineers.
In January 2019, Engineered Systems introduced the winners of its inaugural 20 to Watch: Women in HVAC contest. Upon a warm reception, the contest has continued every year since. The class of 2023 will mark the contest's fifth year and 100th honoree.